St. John’s is the capital and largest city of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It is one of the oldest and most colourful cities in North America, with a rich history and culture. St. John’s offers many attractions and activities for visitors, from scenic hikes and historic sites to lively pubs and festivals. But if you’re looking for something more unique and offbeat, here are 10 experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
Explore the Earth at Johnson GEO CENTRE
The Johnson GEO CENTRE is a geological interpretation centre that showcases the natural wonders of our planet. You can learn about the rocks, fossils, minerals, oil and gas, volcanoes, earthquakes, glaciers, oceans and space that shape our world. The centre is built into the side of Signal Hill, exposing 550 million year old rock formations. You can also see exhibits on Titanic, World War II, the solar system and more.
See whales, puffins and icebergs on a boat tour
Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the best places in the world to see whales, puffins and icebergs. You can join a boat tour from St. John’s harbour and cruise along the rugged coastline, where you might spot humpback whales, minke whales, fin whales, dolphins, seals and more. You can also visit the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, home to the largest Atlantic puffin colony in North America. And if you’re lucky, you might see icebergs floating by from Greenland.
Pay homage to Terry Fox at the Marathon of Hope Mile 0
Marathon of Hope Mile 0 is a monument that honours Terry Fox, a Canadian hero who attempted to run across Canada in 1980 to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Fox started his journey in St. John’s on April 12th, 1980, dipping his artificial leg in the Atlantic Ocean before heading westward. He ran for 143 days and covered 5,373 kilometres before he had to stop due to cancer spreading to his lungs. He died on June 28th, 1981 at age 22. The monument marks the spot where Fox began his marathon of hope, and features a bronze statue of Fox, a plaque, and a map of his route.
Step back in time at The Commissariat
The Commissariat is a historic building that was built in 1820 as the residence and office of the Assistant Commissary General, who was responsible for supplying the British garrison in Newfoundland. Today, it is a museum that tells the story of St. John’s from 1815 to 1825, a period of social and political change. You can see original artifacts, documents and furnishings from that era, as well as interact with costumed interpreters who will bring the past to life.
Dine at Mallard Cottage
Mallard Cottage is a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Newfoundland cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is located in one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America, dating back to the 18th century. You can enjoy dishes like cod tongues, seal flipper pie, moose stew, rabbit ravioli and more, made with local and seasonal ingredients. You can also sample local craft beers and spirits in a rustic and charming atmosphere.
Shop for local crafts at Devon House
Devon House is a heritage building that was built in 1880 as the home of a wealthy merchant family. Today, it is the headquarters of the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador, a non-profit organization that supports local artisans. You can visit the Devon House Clay Studio, where you can see pottery being made by hand. You can also browse the Devon House Craft Gallery, where you can buy unique and beautiful crafts made by local artists.
Hike the East Coast Trail
The East Coast Trail is a 336 km long hiking trail that stretches along the eastern coast of the Avalon Peninsula, from Cape St. Francis to Cappahayden. The trail passes through scenic fishing villages, historic lighthouses, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, waterfalls and more. You can hike the whole trail or choose from 26 shorter paths, ranging from easy to difficult. The trail offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the chance to see wildlife like moose, caribou, foxes and birds.
Visit The Rooms
The Rooms is a cultural facility that houses the provincial museum, art gallery and archives of Newfoundland and Labrador. You can explore the history, culture and identity of the province through exhibits, collections and programs. You can see artifacts from the Indigenous, European and settler communities, as well as contemporary art from local and national artists. You can also enjoy panoramic views of St. John’s from the café and observation deck.
Party on George Street
George Street is a pedestrian-only street in downtown St. John’s that is famous for its nightlife. It has the most bars and pubs per square foot of any street in North America, offering live music, comedy, karaoke, trivia and more. You can find pubs that serve traditional Newfoundland music and food, as well as clubs that play modern dance and rock tunes. George Street is also home to several festivals throughout the year, such as the George Street Festival and Mardi Gras.
Visit North America’s most easternmost point
Cape Spear Lighthouse is a landmark that will take your breath away. The lighthouse is located on Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America, and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. The lighthouse was built in 1836 and is the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador. You can tour the restored lighthouse and see how the keepers lived and worked in the 19th century. You can also visit the World War II bunkers and gun emplacements that were part of the harbour defence system.
Satisfy your curiousity at the Fluvarium
Fluvarium is a unique attraction that lets you see what lies beneath the surface of a freshwater stream. The fluvarium is a glass-walled building that extends nine metres below the water level of Nagle’s Hill Brook, allowing you to observe the aquatic life and ecosystem of the stream. You can see fish, plants, insects, and other creatures that live in the stream, as well as learn about the importance of freshwater conservation through interactive exhibits and programs.
